Meaning: This quote is from the preface of "Frankenstein" written by Mary Shelley, and it reflects her reluctance to showcase herself in print but also justifies her decision to provide an account related to her authorship. Mary Shelley, born Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin, was an English novelist, best known for her Gothic novel "Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus," which was first published in 1818. The novel has since become a classic work of literature and has had a significant influence on popular culture.

In the preface, Mary Shelley expresses her aversion to self-promotion and the public spotlight, stating that she is hesitant to bring herself forward in print. This reluctance may stem from her desire to let her work speak for itself and not draw attention to her personal life or experiences. However, she also acknowledges that her account will only be an appendage to a former production, referring to the reissue of "Frankenstein," and that it will be confined to topics related to her authorship alone. This suggests that she sees her contribution as a necessary addition to the existing work, rather than an act of self-indulgence or self-promotion.

Mary Shelley's justification for providing an account related to her authorship indicates that she does not view it as a personal intrusion. Instead, she seems to regard it as a means of providing context and insight into the creation of "Frankenstein" and her experiences as its author. By acknowledging the connection between her account and her authorship alone, she attempts to delineate the boundaries of her self-representation, emphasizing that her intentions are not to intrude upon the narrative but to enhance the reader's understanding of the work.

It is important to consider the historical and social context in which Mary Shelley wrote "Frankenstein." As a woman in the early 19th century, she faced societal expectations and limitations that may have influenced her reluctance to assert herself in the public sphere. Women authors during this period often encountered challenges in gaining recognition for their literary contributions, and their work was sometimes overshadowed by male counterparts. Mary Shelley's preface can be seen as a reflection of the complex dynamics of gender, authorship, and self-representation in her time.

Furthermore, the preface provides valuable insights into Mary Shelley's perspective on authorship and the responsibilities that come with it. Despite her aversion to self-promotion, she recognizes the significance of providing an account that sheds light on her creative process and the context in which "Frankenstein" was written. By doing so, she not only offers readers a deeper understanding of the novel but also asserts her agency as an author, asserting her right to contribute her own narrative to the literary discourse.

In conclusion, Mary Shelley's preface to "Frankenstein" reveals her reluctance to assert herself in print while also justifying her decision to provide an account related to her authorship. It offers valuable insights into her perspective on authorship, self-representation, and the complexities of being a woman writer in the early 19th century. By examining this preface, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the historical and social context in which "Frankenstein" was written and for Mary Shelley's nuanced approach to navigating the challenges of self-promotion and self-representation as an author.